Arusha

Arusha is the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit and the city where most journeys begin and end. Set in green, fertile foothills beneath Mount Meru, it enjoys a mild climate thanks to its altitude, and is surrounded by coffee and flower farms. Most international visitors arrive through Kilimanjaro International Airport, about an hour away, and spend a night or two in Arusha before heading out on safari.

Things to Do in and Around Arusha

Arusha is much more than a stopover. Arusha National Park, less than an hour from town, protects the slopes of Mount Meru, the Momella Lakes and the Ngurdoto Crater, and is home to black-and-white colobus monkeys, giraffes and buffalo. It is also one of the few places on the northern circuit where you can take a walking safari with an armed ranger, or paddle a canoe on the lakes. Closer to town, you can tour a coffee farm, browse Maasai markets and local art, and enjoy a relaxed first night after a long flight.

Mount Meru

At 4,566 metres, Mount Meru is Tanzania's second-highest mountain. Its three- to four-day climb is a superb adventure in its own right and an excellent acclimatisation trek before tackling Kilimanjaro.

Getting There

Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is about an hour's drive from Arusha and has direct and connecting international flights. Arusha Airport handles domestic flights to the Serengeti, Zanzibar and other parks.